The realization that he could now access the System without the need for the rusty metal piece was a revelation for Ackah. It felt like unlocking a hidden layer of his own mind. The familiar blue screen now shimmered into existence merely at his mental command, a silent whisper in his thoughts made visible. This newfound ability offered a level of convenience and secrecy he hadn't possessed before. No longer did he have to find a secluded spot and physically hold the metal; he could now subtly check his tasks, his GSC balance, or even access training modules with a mere flicker of his concentration.
This mental activation proved particularly useful during the lulls in training sessions at the academy. While the coaches were occupied with other players or during brief water breaks, Ackah could discreetly bring up the System, reviewing his next daily task or mentally going over the instructions for a specific passing technique he had learned. It was like having a secret coach constantly available, offering guidance and reminders whenever he needed them.
He also began to experiment with the System's activation in more public settings, though always with extreme caution. Waiting in line for meals at the academy cafeteria or during a classroom lesson, he would sometimes mentally trigger the blue screen for a fleeting moment, just to reassure himself that the connection was still there, the power still within him. It was a subtle thrill, a secret he held entirely to himself.
As he spent more time at the academy, Ackah started to notice subtle differences in the way other talented players seemed to improve. Some displayed an almost unnatural level of physical prowess, their speed and strength developing at an astonishing rate. Others seemed to possess an uncanny tactical awareness, always knowing where to be on the pitch and making seemingly impossible interceptions. Ackah couldn't shake the feeling that some of them might also be benefiting from a "System" of their own, but their progress felt… different.
For instance, Rheon's incredible speed seemed to come naturally, a raw burst of power that left opponents trailing. While Ackah's physical conditioning had improved thanks to his System, it felt more gradual, more focused on overall athleticism rather than a single, dominant attribute like Rheon's pace. Similarly, Xylo's exceptional passing accuracy and vision seemed to stem from countless hours of dedicated practice and a deep understanding of spatial awareness, rather than the step-by-step instructions Ackah received from his training modules.
These observations led Ackah to believe that if others did possess Systems, they were likely different in nature from his own. Perhaps some focused more on physical enhancements, while others emphasized tactical learning. His System seemed to offer a balanced approach, covering a wide range of skills and providing a structured path for development. This realization made him even more protective of his own secret, understanding that its unique nature might be his greatest advantage.
One day, during a particularly intense training session focused on attacking formations, Coach Thorne paired Ackah and Rheon together in the same attacking line. This was a rare occurrence, as they usually played in slightly different roles. However, Coach Thorne explained that he wanted to see how their contrasting styles could complement each other.
The initial attempts were clumsy. Rheon, as usual, looked to burst past defenders with his speed, often running ahead of Ackah's passes. Ackah, on the other hand, tried to play intricate through balls that required Rheon to check his run and time his movement perfectly. Frustration mounted between the two young players.
During a brief pause, Coach Thorne gathered them together. "Rheon, Ackah, you both have exceptional talent, but you need to learn to work together. Rheon, try to be more aware of Ackah's passing range. Ackah, try to anticipate Rheon's runs and play the ball into space for him to run onto."
Inspired by the coach's words, Ackah mentally accessed his System, quickly reviewing the "Passing Fundamentals" module, specifically focusing on techniques for playing long passes into open space. In the next drill, as Rheon made a lightning-fast run down the wing, Ackah, without even looking up, unleashed a perfectly weighted long pass that landed just ahead of Rheon's outstretched foot. Rheon collected the ball in stride and slotted it past the goalkeeper with ease.
A look of surprise, quickly followed by a nod of respect, crossed Rheon's face. For the first time, they had connected effectively, their contrasting styles momentarily harmonizing. Ackah felt a surge of satisfaction, realizing the power of combining his System-enhanced skills with his real-world training and his ability to adapt to his teammates.
Later that week, Ackah finally accumulated enough GSC to unlock the "Aerial Duels" training module. He eagerly delved into the holographic demonstrations, focusing intently on the techniques for jumping, timing his headers, and using his body effectively in aerial challenges, even against taller opponents. He knew this was a crucial area for his development, and he dedicated extra time to practicing the drills, both mentally through visualization and physically on the training pitch.
As Ackah continued to navigate the demanding world of the Accra academy, making friends, navigating rivalries, and constantly honing his skills with the help of his unique, now mentally accessible System, he felt a growing sense of confidence. He was no longer just surviving; he was thriving. The whispers in his mind, the silent guidance of the blue screen, were becoming an integral part of his journey, pushing him towards a future where his potential as a multiversal playmaker was beginning to look like a tangible reality.